Sunday, December 31, 2006

Odds are this will be the last blog post of 2006. I was recently asked if I do resolutions - No, why set ones self up for failure ------ I do have some goals I'd like to implement and achieve in 2007 but I refuse to put unrealistic pressure on myself.

I am feeling like wet cement today ---- I guess when you don't go to sleep until 5:30 in the morning one would feel like wet cement. We had a blast though. Freaking mermaids:) It was a great birthday.

2006 - wow it doesn't seem like it should be coming to a close. Where did the year go? Loved ones lost - new friends gained - breaking out of ones comfort zone - all in all I say 2006 was a good year. I hope that 2007 brings less loss but love and contentment to all.

Thursday, December 28, 2006

So, I had this great blog entry all done. It was publishing and I lost my freaking internet connection mid post -- so what happened it vanished into cyberhell!!!Rat Bastard!!! I love this phrase!!!!

Here is a picture I forgot to post.Whitlee getting up close and personal.

I'll try and remember what I posted............................................

So lets start with Christmas eve. We went to Christy's so the kids could exchange presents. I'm not sure if JC and Christopher liked their presents. Whitlee fell in love with JC's blanket while I made it and she drug it around the house for a couple of hours after I finished it. What I didn't notice was that she must have dragged it through her plate with pancakes on it --- there was syrup on his blanket. I am SO SO embarrased!!! Brendan got a telescope which he loves and Whitlee got a baby (her name is rock). She loves it becuase it came in a clear backpack and she can carry stuff around in it!!!!We went up to Marilyn and Gary's house. Of course they totally spoiled the kids. I know I know grandparents don't have any rules!! As you can see by the photos below Brendan got a super cool Hot Wheel racing track among other things. Whitlee of course HAD to put on her Awesome outfit Grandma bought for her. She stripped right in the middle of the room.

Marilyn had a beautiful tree. Everything on the tree had been made by Grammy. We sure did miss her!!! I think we all thought of her at least a million times during the evening.

So, Christmas morning dawned and we found ourselves lost among mounds of wrapping paper. Whitlee was thrilled with the 12 Dancing Princesses Dancing Stone that Santa brought her -- She also got a battery operated kitty like her Grandma. Brendan was on the verge of a panic attack. He thought Santa forgot him. Santa would never forget him -- his presents were very close to the Christmas Ficus (more about that later). He got 2 boxes of Yu-gi-oh cards -- they are a hard to find item so he was excited that Santa was able to get them.

The mighty Christmas Ficus. No, I didn't make a typo we had a Christmas Ficus this year. We really did go out with Steven, Sharlene and Matthew to hack down a tree. We actually found a good one. We had it outside in a bucket of water until we were ready for it and wouldn't you know it....................IT FROZE SOLID!!!!! So, we had a treesicle. It was frozen for 9 yes 9 days -- by the time it thawed out there was no way that baby was coming in the house. As soon as it warmed up every single one of those needles would have fallen off of that tree. The tree stayed outside and we made merry with the Christmas Ficus:)

We went back up to Marilyn and Gary's house to spend some time with them. The kids really enjoy spending time with them.

Then we went to Steven and Sharlene's house. The first thing I'd like to say is that Steven is in DESPERATE need of medication lots and lots of MEDICATION!!! Only he could be so warped to appreciate what he did. He made the relish plate from hell(see below)

The Relish Tray from Hell!!!!!!

Only Steven would think of this!!! Anyhow I guess that's it for Christmas. I am grateful no puke navidad for us. It was a good holiday and we are fortunate.I am grateful pure and simple. I am grateful for my kids. I am grateful for families who partake in our Christmas tradition and eat clam chowder on Christmas Eve - even though it was followed in short order by a chorus of puke navidad!! I really does mean more than I can say -- it means as much as cleaning baby puke off the kitchen floor!!! We got some not so good news today and day before yesterday............I found out that someone we care about her father has stage 4 pancratic-liver cancer. I know what it does and IT SUCKS!!! Then today I found out that someone else we care about has stage 2 breast cancer -- she is young and has a young child. Both are in my thoughts.2007 is just a couple of hours away................2007 really already!!!! We will be spending it with friends -- Brendan will be at Steven's per tradition but we will at friends - Jeff playing poker - Whitlee eating powerbar casserole:) and running wild - me........well I will be catching it all on film and maybe making movies!!!!2007 - it's going to be a good year - I am learing cycles - It will be a good year!!!!As per a request from Steven -- Snow Miser is gone.Oprah OUT!!

Wednesday, December 27, 2006

There are many things I want to blog about but I want to start with Friday. In addition to it being Whitlee's first gymnastic's lesson she also got her hair cut - now before anyone panics it was only a trim. but a hair cut never the less. She did SO GREAT!!!!!!! Here are a couple of pictures of the event.

Friday, December 22, 2006

This has been a busy busy week! Life has been stressful maybe not more stressful than any other day but compounded by other life events stressful never the less.

There was school on Tuesday and Brendan was happy to get back. Winter break started on Wednesday. The school's Winter program was cancelled. I'm not really happy about that because Brendan had 2 parts. I still want to see the program. I am working with the school to see if it still can happen.

It seems for every step forward I find I am a block behind:) Ahhhh such is life. Terri (that's Mrs. L. to you:)) and I have decided we are the new Oprah and Gail -- Jeff is starring as Stedman and we haven't decided who D (her husband) is yet. Since D works nights and they have 5 (yes 5) children her free time is limited (I am not going to give anymore information about her since I don't have her permission to talk about her.........yet:)) -- so we have been hanging out at the scino -- Not dropping a ton of money (no Steve I don't need an intervention) but its a nice place where we can sit and just talk - you know mom talk - she can see the humor and not the humor of Whitlee's latest art project -- grilled cheese dipped in ketchup torn apart and plastered on the side of the toy box. Or the delicate engineering of balancing the Elmo couch on top of the coffee table while eating grapes and cookies:0 You have to just LOVE 2 year olds:) Anyhow we have decided the Jade Monkeys SUCK - freaking monkeys...........We have a love/hate relationship with the fairies...........Disco Freddy no longer SUCKS he is the disco king.........The penguins can be really nice..........the dolphins are fickle...............The witches have mood swings.........The big Kahuna is TOTALLY rad.......Milking the cow is a fun place to start...........and any machine over $.05 makes me break out in a cold sweat:) I did however get my totally bitchin white trash Muckleshoot Casino blanket...............hmmmmm now to decide if I want the crystal that is available in January. And for the record I am currently $35 up and I used it to buy part of a ham from the Honeybaked ham store for Christmas. Brendan loves to hang out with her boys as they LOVE Yu-gi-oh:). It's nice she gets me and I don't have to feel defensive about anything --- they are good people!!!!

Christmas.................it's just around the corner and not a present wrapped ok 1 present is wrapped..........really just one!!! I am trying to convince Jeff that since I shopped and purchased the presents he should wrap all of them. He isn't going for that. I haven't given up yet..............they will get done Jeff and I are no strangers to staying up all night wrapping. We have a Christmas tree but it's not in the house -- We had a tree-sicle the bucket of water we put the tree in was a solid block of ice. Even though it has thawed out if we bring that baby in it will lose every single needle on the tree and I don't want to clean that up. So, we are so getto we have a Christmas Ficus - yes that is right a Christmas Ficus. We brought the fake ficus out of Whitlee's room and I trimmed all the branches that she had peeled the leaves off of and tomorrow we will be putting on lights and ornaments - I'll be posting photos when we are done. The kids don't care as far as they are concerned our tree is the jewelery tree that Grammy made us. It has always had meaning but this year it means more to us since it is our first Christmas without her. It doesn't really matter that the tree-sicle is outside a tree doesn't make the holiday - spending it with family and people we care about is what makes it special.

We aren't going to Jeff's dads until January - I think the plan right now is to try and go down Friday night before our Snow/Ski weekend with the football freaks. We'd go down Friday spend the night and then leave Saturday to drive to Mt. Hood. I wonder how long it takes to get from Portland to Mt. Hood -- we should check that out. Can you believe we are going to the snow on purpose!!! I know I know pretty crazy huh!! The kids are so excited. I think Brendan is waiting for us to say we aren't going. We need a getaway weekend. We didn't go on vacation this year - not even the beach so snow in the winter it is and probably the beach this summer (but I can't think of that right now). We are gearing up to be snow bunnies ok I'll resemble a polar bear but we will have fun fun fun. Of course I am bringing my computer I never leave home without it -- I am actually only bringing it so I can download the photos I take. My goal is to take a MINIMUM of 3000 yes that is THOUSAND pictures - I think I can do it. Ahhhhhh, visions of scrapbook pages are dancing in my head.

Whitlee started gymnastics today --- she loved it -- I am trying to upload some video of her -- it was precious!!!!! Cheerleading starts the 28th of February - we are EXCITED.

And here is Brendan............

Whitlee got her first "real" haircut -- it was actually a trim but then Ms. Angie french braided her hair -- I literally took 500 pictures:) I love my new camera:)

Jeff doesn't have to work on Tuesday so I am going to see if I can take Brendan into downtown to see the Bodies Connections exhibit. He has really wanted to see it but it's not really something that I want to take Whitlee. The only thing is to see if they are open the day after Christmas. I'll have to check into that. Maybe I'll have him take Whitlee to see Charlotte's Web so she can scream "RATS RULE!!" at him. Hum........something to think about.

Monday, December 18, 2006

Well, only one extra day......Evergreen Heights had no electricity - so Brendan had a 4 day weekend. He was wishing that it would turn out to be an early Christmas vacation start but NO WAY!!! The school got electricity this afternoon and they were working on the boiler -- I am actually glad there is school I have a present for Brendan's teacher and the principal - add to that I have some "errands" to run and doing it with a 2 year old who won't remember what I bought it PERFECT:)

We don't have a Christmas tree this year -- well that isn't true we do have a tree-cycle. We had our tree outside in a bucket of water and well ----- it FROZE solid!!! It has been that way for 3 1/2 days. Even if we were able to hack it out of the ice and bring it inside once it warmed up we would loose all the needles. So, I am tomorrow I am taking the 6 ft fake ficus I have in Whitlee's room and we are going to decorate that! How getto -- or I could take Terri's idea and go buy the 2 ft pink tinsel tree -- I know that at least Whitlee would LOVE it because it is her color.

We have put up Grammys tree -- It brings Brendan and Jeff comfort. This is going to be such a hard Christmas.

I should have my shopping done tomorrow - then all that will be left is the wrapping man I HATE the wrapping ---- I still have the calendars to run - I only have 2 months left to do.

Tonight was the Cub Scout meeting that Jeff dresses up as Santa. It was PRECIOUS!! Whitlee didn't even realize that it was her dad. She was SO excited to see him and he called her by name which sent her over the moon!!! She kept saying Santa knew my name. She was sure to ask him if he was still coming to her house and did he remember that she wanted a Dora Princess (I'll have to find that tomorrow) and the 12 Dancing Princesses Dancing Stone (That's in the closet). Jeff.....I mean Santa asked her if she had been a good girl this year and she was so honest and she said well, sometimes I give my mommy attitude:) Out of the mouth of babes!!!!

Sunday, December 17, 2006

Since I posted anything well our internet connection was out. I know I know that is whiney and selfish and spoiled. There are many many people who don't have their power back and we are lucky to have not lost ours.

I did some Christmas shopping tonight and then Terri and I went to the Cino for a couple of hours --- the fairys were nice to me but the jade monkeys and the witches were not -- Louie the Lobster gave me some of my money back but I am about $10 down - not bad for a couple of hours entertainment.

Whitlee is AWESOME!!!!! Potty training is going SO well!!! She really really does want that big girl bed. She had an accident today but it wasn't her fault.

Brendan is doing well -- His Christmas program is on Monday afternoon -- He is so excited about it. He has speaking parts!!! I am going to take lots and lots of pictures so I'll post on Monday.

I think that is all for now -- I am really tired and need to sleep............Cunningham OUT!

Wednesday, December 13, 2006

until Christmas!!!! Can you believe it! YIKES and like every year not a present wrapped -- man I just HATE and I mean HATE wrapping presents - I don't mind doing the shopping for them I just hate wrapping them. I may enlist Jeff's help as of this weekend. I am almost done shopping ALMOST! There are a few people (Grandma and Grandpa and Sharlene) who are not being helpful I see cans of corn in their future:)

Last night (Monday) was skate night -- since Brendan is still under the shadow of grounding we took Whitlee -- Brendan was there but was being used for child labor (someone had to help stuff those boy scout flyers). I forget she is only 2 sometimes -- This was only her 2nd time on skates - she is a natural!!!! As you can see she didn't need my help!!!!

Monday, December 11, 2006

I haven't had much time to blog recently -- Brendan is really giving us a run for our money right now --- needless to say he is grounded and I mean bottom line grounded no tv no computer or video games but he did log and extra 500 minutes or so of reading this weekend -- he read an entire biography on Walt Disney:) If I were a betting woman I am guessing he won't be lying in the near future.

Anyhow I am off I have a billion things to do before I do a billion things tomorrow:)

Thursday, December 07, 2006

it sucks!!! Last night I had the enchalida from HELL --- the pukes started and man have I been in a world of hurt -- Jeff and I you should see us what a pair - he was home sick today that is day 2 - you know in order for him to be home he has to be REALLY sick!!

Monday, December 04, 2006

I just can't find my Christmas spirit! It's no secret that I don't enjoy the holidays in general -- no warm and fuzzy holiday memories. Although I do have memories of the relish tray from hell and burned homemade clam chowder with raw potato hunks:)

Since having children I have REALLY tried to "get in the holiday spirit" this year I just don't feel it.

I just got word that an old friend is moving back to the NW area -- not back to Seattle but maybe Portland -- that's closer than San Francisco. It will be good to see Emilie:)

Brendan starts 5th grade basketball practice tomorrow -- He is SO excited he can barely contain himself!! He is very excited his friend Blake who is homeschooled will be playing on the team with him. He has been waiting since Kindergarten to play on this team. It's going to be a good year!!!!

You may have noticed that I only have one song on my blog ipod -- it is from my favorite Christmas movie - A Year Without A Santa Claus - enjoy

Sunday, December 03, 2006

I think it is safe to say we have left the puke zone!!!! Whitlee is feeling GREAT(knock on wood!!!) There has been nothing for over 24 hours and she actually had cereal with milk!!!

I decided to "chance" it and we went to see Santa today -- Whitlee and I did a dry run last week -- very casual and we just went and talked to him. He was so kind to her - She was VERY VERY excited to see him today - Brendan well not so excited but then again he is 10 years old!!!. We only had to wait in line for 45 minutes...Not bad. When they opened the gate for us Whitlee literally sprinted up to Santa. She couldn't get on his lap fast enough. I'm going to post the picture from last year and then this years shot ----- What a difference a year makes!!!

Saturday, December 02, 2006

seriously!!!! I "think"(fingers crossed) we may be exiting the great vomit period................Whitlee seems to be feeling a bit better - notice I say seems....she has fooled us before. I figure at some point I'll get some sleep!!!

I know this is short but with all the puke I have masses of laundry!!!

Thursday, November 30, 2006

throw up in 18 hours???? ANSWER: A LOT!!! Poor sweet Whitlee Jane..................She started throwing up at 1:30 AM -- and hasn't stopped yet -- although she does hold off long enough for her parents to start thinking that maybe we may be getting a hand up on this -------BUT NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. She hates it and I hate to see her cry. I must run...........I hear gagging............................

Wednesday, November 29, 2006

That was my expression to my stand-in Gyno this morning. We all know I have some serious fertility issues and now..........................I have to take freaking birth control pills!!! You have got to be kidding right?? Talk about a waste of time - well I guess not a waste of time as it is suppose to "regulate" my cycle. That is the start I say just yank the crap out I certainly am not in the market for anymore babies. So, I am taking the new "superstar" birth control pill -- Yasmin -- I go back in 3 months -- we'll see how it goes..........BLAH

Whitlee has discovered my tattoos! She has seen them before but for whatever reason today was the day she wanted to see them up close and personal!!! She understands she has to wait until she is 32 to get toos that don't wash off. So, I whipped out my bic markers and too'd her up:) SHE LOVED IT!!! Well, she loved it so much she wouldn't put on clothes --

Today was a snow day -- Brendan was so funny -- he has asked to be woken up when his dad was getting ready to leave for work -- he fell right back to sleep. I figured I'd just let him sleep --- he woke up at 9:15 (school starts at 9:10) he came running into my room full of panic -- it's 9:15 and I am late for school ---- When he realized that it was a snow day and although there was 6 inches of snow at the school we just had a dusting. He went back to bed. Who knows what tomorrow brings -- The Auburn School District didn't post the closure until 5 A.M.

I love my kids ---- they make me smile with their laughter -- they make me smile with their wonder -- they make me smile with every single breath they take. I LOVE MY KIDS!!!!

A funny sidenote................Jeff saw the devil at the train station!!! Evidently she is taking the Sounder these days..........YIKES!!!! I hope she doesn't recognize him he may be forced to talk to her.

Friday, November 24, 2006

Today has been long -- there were giggles and laughs -- tears and sobs -- it has been an ok day.

Tonight was Grammy's service -- Jeff actually got up and spoke about her -- I was shocked that he was able to get through it. It was nice.

Whitlee picked out my birthday cake today -- NO TURKEY CAKE!!! I had balloon and Barbie candles -- any guess on who picked the candles??

Brendan picked out the funniest card:) I love his sense of humor -- He is such a GREAT kid!! He is spending the night with his grandparents tonight -- he really just wanted to spend some special time with Marilyn.

I am off to bed............Steven is getting married tomorrow and I have much to do.

Tuesday, November 21, 2006

Evidently the only one keeping the secret was me:) Although I must admit if it were me I don't think I could keep it either.........So, the secret is out -------- Steven and Sharlene are getting married on Saturday!!!!! We are SO SO SO happy for them. Of course their lives are super crazy right now -- but it is going to be beautiful (just keep thinking no wind no wind no wind for Saturday night)Brendan is thrilled that there is only 3 days of school this week. Jeff has tomorrow (Wednesday) off -- Whitlee is thrilled about that. I may have Jeff take her to the movies. Brendan and I went to see Flushed Away on Saturday night. He loved it -- me not so much but than again we didn't go for me to enjoy it. OK the slugs were cute....I am going to be 38 on Friday --- God when you think about it it seems SO old!!! But I don't feel old sometimes I feel old --- sometimes I feel really old!!! What am I going to make for Thanksgiving??? Gary is cooking a turkey -- Brendan is making his much requested cranberry bread (it is acutally really really good and I don't like cranberries) -- I think I am making a banana cream pie -- Whitlee and I are going to the pie store in the morning --- Maybe I should get ahold of Marilyn and figure it out........How many days away is it???

Sunday, November 19, 2006

This has been one hell of a weekend!!!! One of the only bright spots..........The University Of Washington Huskys beat the Washington State Cougars --- I thought that they were going to choke it and let the Cougs woop them but no - they pulled it OUT!!! Bow down to Washington!!!

Brendan and I helped Marilyn and Gary pack up Grammy's apartment on Saturday --- I felt so bad for them they had moved Grammy in last Sunday -- I think that if there is a daughter of the year of the decade of forever and ever the lifetime achievement it should go to Marilyn HANDS DOWN!!! I can only hope to raise my children to be 1/2 of the person she is. For people who believe there is a heaven there is a special place there for her!!

I slept last night and I mean slept for 4 1/2 hours straight --- I was OUT! The house could have caught fire and I would have slept through it. I have probably slept a total of 15 hours in the last week.

This upcoming week brings a day of thanks a day of goodbye and a well I can't talk about what else it brings but it will ROCK!

Friday, November 17, 2006

I feel as I have lived a lifetime in 4 days. Brendan didn't go to school today - why should he?? 3 hours for what?? We didn't get home until midnight last night - I really think it did Jeff and Brendan good to see Marilyn and I know it did her good to see them.I don't even know what time Brendan went to bed last night -- I know he had a pretty serious conversation with Jeff. I let him sleep until noon today -- I reached my stress point today -- I should give myself a time out -- Whitlee kept asking me when we get to see Grammy or I want to see Grammy or Can we call my Grammy that is always followed by I love her so much - Every time my heart is ripped out of my chest. Then I have to explain that she is gone and she cries and says over and over I want her I love her I want to hug her.My heart hurts my head hurts and there is a week to go... I am going to meet Marilyn tomorrow morning to help pack up Grammys house. I don't know if Brendan is going with me or not but I think he probably will.I just found out the service that was previously scheduled for Saturday afternoon is now on Friday evening at 6 p.m.Whitlee is awake now -- crying -- I feel myself folding -- What the hell I'm letting her stay up!!!

Thursday, November 16, 2006

I reached in grabbed his heart and ripped it right out of his chest - my sweet loving 10 year old. I caused him pain and sorrow and there wasn't anything I could do about it. Today I failed as a parent.

Jeff's Grandma died last night -- the sense of loss is overwhelming! I try and find comfort and peace in the fact that I know she wasn't in any pain(thank you Morphine). She died peacefully in her sleep with her daughters by her side. When we were at the hospital last night she didn't recognize anyone -- the medication had her so drugged. There was some sporadic response but not a whole lot. Luckily for us we were also there the night before and she was able to recognize both Jeff and Brendan -- Marilyn called this morning while I was taking Brendan to school. I selfishly decided not to say anything to him at that time -- I knew how he would react and I wanted him to be able to pay attention in school. As soon as he got in the car today the first thing out of his mouth was "What did grandma have to say when she called this morning?" I told him we would talk about it later. When he got home he became my shadow....he followed me from room to room. So I broke his heart --- I'm sure on some level he knew what I was going to tell him but to hear the words he fell apart. I swear I could actually hear his heart breaking into little pieces. Grammy meant the world to him. He doesn't really remember my mom - he was so young when Grampy died - he remembers Mima but since he only saw her once or twice a year it's almost as if she just moved away...and he was younger 4 or 5 when she died -- So this is his first real in your face someone you REALLY care about and see often kind of loss. Grammy NEVER let an opportunity go by to tell him she was proud of him and to do well in school. My children will never doubt that she loved them. She believed that the sun rose and set on them. They will be better people because of her.

We will all miss her so very much. She was a WONDERFUL woman who was loved by many.

Tuesday, November 14, 2006

Well, I had every intention of figuring out where my mp3 player went today while sweet Whitlee napped -- that didn't happen.Whitlee and I took Brendan to school this morning and then took Jeff to work -- Brendans school fundraiser and Boy Scout Popcorn arrived and needed to be delivered. We were home maybe 15 minutes -- just long enough for Whitlee to go potty and I made her something to eat. The phone rang it was Jeff's mom. His grandma was in the hospital and it didn't look good. Jeff and I had just been talking about this last night. She had less than a 5% chance of making it through the night. Somehow she made it through -- there are MANY things going on inside her but to respect her privacy I'll just say she is REALLY REALLY REALLY sick. I practically threw Whitlee in her car seat rushed up to the school to get Brendan and sped to Seattle to pick up Jeff. When we got to the hospital she was able to recognize Jeff, myself and Brendan -- It took everything she had just to whisper hi. There are so many emotions that are floating around now -- Jeff is freaked and I don't blame him. This woman practically raised him after his dad left and Marilyn was working. She thinks the sun rises and sets on Jeff and she doesn't care who knows it. And she LOVES Brendan and Whitlee. I want her to get better with every cell in my body (yes, that is a lot of cells!!!!) She is almost 95 years old!!! Hopefully tonight will be uneventful.I have a secret.......................and I can't share it with anyone!!! I had to PROMISE I wouldn't say anything but I have a secret...................................WOOOOOOT WOOOOOOOOOOT!!!!!!!I'm going to play with some pictures right now I need to do something that will make my creative portion of my mind work so I won't be focused on the rest ---- I have a headache, Jeff had a headache and Brendan has a migraine.I am SO PROUD of Brendan!!!! When we came home so Jeff could change his clothes and take a brief nap Brendan INSISTED on going back to the hospital with him --- he wanted to be there just in case Grammy woke up he wanted her to know he was still there.

Friday, November 10, 2006

I've been told that I MUST blog everyday --- When I don't I throw a wrench in Jenel's day:) So, I am going to try...................

I don't really have a lot to say right now as I am TIRED!!!!! Brendan went back to school on Thursday -- almost an entire week out but he is feeling better.

Whitlee won the war today ok maybe just the battle -- she wore a dacing leotard ALL DAY even to school for the Veteran's assembly. It just wasn't worth the hassel and she was happy --- big girl underpants all day even at school and NO accidents.

Tuesday, November 07, 2006

You know after almost 11 years in I have learned so much as a parent. I have learned patience. I have learned to laugh at myself. I have learned its ok to splash in the monster puddles because you can giggle after -- anyway why else do we have rain boots!!! I have learned patience. I have learned to be less rigid (notice I say less). I have learned that is really is a sad thing when the girl guppy dies because she is a good fish friend. I have learned that I won't melt if it is raining during a soccer game. I have learned patience. I have learned that I can "function" after being up for most of the night while your child is ill and you are trying to help. I have learned patience. I have learned that a 2 year old has untapped compassion. I have learned that if I never do ANYTHING else in this world I have brought to it 2 people that WILL make it a better place. I have learned and continue to learn patience and I LOVE MY CHILDREN.

Every single day and I mean every single day they each make me proud for different reasons -- now I am not saying that every day is a walk in the park and every day is smiles giggles and frosting. But they each do something that stops me in my tracks and I think - WOW!!! You’re a great kid :)

Is it normal to love your children so much??? I don't remember feeling love like that growing up. I don't remember my mom thinking anything we did was cute -- she certainly wouldn't have thought it was cute if at 2 I created vampire fangs from a stick of pepperoni (who thinks of doing something like that – my sweet girly girl). She definitely wouldn’t have answered the question “Mommy, do you like butterflies and vampires?” about 1000 times a day – who would think of putting those 2 things together?? Her heart would not have broken when a 2 year old cried when she learned the girl guppy had died proclaiming – “She was my very good fishy friend I sure am going to miss her.” My heart just broke with her tears (we will be getting a girl guppy in the morning). I don’t ever remember playing in rain puddles – YES I am playing in rain puddles – because we DO have rain boots and raincoats!!! HELLO, what are they for anyway. I don’t ever remember having my parents feel “proud” of me. How can you not feel proud of your children I feel it everyday!!

Brendan has been sick – he was up all last night. There is something going around school and I think it may have invaded our house. Even as crappy as he was feeling he was concerned of me getting close because he didn’t want me to get sick. I love my kids!! He sold the most Christmas Wreath/Decorations in the 5th grade. He earned enough to not only pay for his ENTIRE camp fee there is a substantial amount that is extra. He was able to “decide” what to do with it – he could have it dived among the kids who participated in the fundraiser, he could direct it towards one person, he could put it in the “campers fund” which is for kids who need help with their camp fee. What did he decide to do??? There are 3 sets of twins in the 5th grade this year – 2 of the sets he has known since being a Kinder – he decided that he would “use” his extra money and divide it between the 2 sets he has known because each of those families has 2 kids to send to camp. I love my kids and they make me proud every single day!!!!!

Would my mom be proud of my kids?? I’d like to think so – How could you not love them? You know who did love them (even though she left us before Whitlee was born) --- Mima…. She really loved me and she was proud of me. She LOVED Brendan. She would have loved Whitlee – She would have been proud of my kids. She taught me to be a parent -- She taught me patience. I miss her every single day. I love my kids!!!

Whitlee Being a vampire (she is obsessed with vampires -- the fangs are pepperoni)

The kids at the pumpkin patch

Brendan the SUPER Goalie!!!! He actually did a roll and stopped the shot!!!

Evidently this is what you are suppose to do during nap time -- thankfully the super IKEA dresser literally weighs 250 -300 pounds so it didn't tip over and we now know the drawers can hold 38 lbs of clothes!!!!

soccer in the rain!!! So, people told me it would happen but I am a rookie mom -- they promised it would happen but I am a rookie mom -- I knew it was coming but I am spoiled and I am a rookie mom!!!! This morning we awoke to POUNDING rain -- surely they won't play soccer in weather like this - I was wrong!!! Luckily by the time Brendan's game started it was a light rain - I of course sat in the chicken seats (under the HUGE tree). Brendan started in goal but I don't think that the other team was human -- they were back passing and back dribbling I think they might have been robots. Anyhow they scored 3 times in pretty quick order (one shouldn't have counted because it was out of bounds - but the ref counted it). Brendan was destroyed - he started to get upset because he felt like he was letting his team down. When he was subbed out he fell apart -- Coach Doug met him at the sideline - I don't know what he said to Brendan but that guy is AWESOME!!! It did rain the entire game we were cold and soggy but it was great. Here is a shot I took of Brendan at the end of the game - soaking and filthy (yes, that is mud) but LOVING SOCCER!!!

Thursday, November 02, 2006

that nacho cheese could kick my ass - LITERALLY!!!! As I am in the "SUPERMOM" mode at school -- it's Halloween and of course I have nothing but time (does anyone believe that??) The primary grades we having a "Fall Festival" instead of the traditional classroom parties -- they had asked the PTA if they could borrow our nacho cheese machine - sure, no problem..........well the company that carries the nacho cheese ---- OUT OF SUPPLY --- WHAT it's what you do how can you be "out" So we may not order but one or two cases a year (there are 4 bags in a case) but we only have 325 kids in our school!!! Anyhow on Oct. 30th I get a call that they will have it in the morning did I still need some -- DUH!! So, I drop Brendan off and school and a giggling Kitty Witch and I dash to Kent to get this cheese -- now I have to be back at the school in order to catch the AM Kinders and the AM ECE to take shots of them for the yearbook. Somewhere on the drive back from the industrial area of Kent I decide that I AM SUPERMOM not only that I AM SUPER PTA MOM!!!! Now I don't know what caused such delusions but alas that is what it was. I pull into the parking lot heft the 45+ pound box of nacho cheese onto my hip direct my sweet little kitty witch up to the side walk and grab the massive cauldron full of candy for the kiddos in my right hand --- Smart??? I think not but did I do it anyhow but of course. Now I noticed a twinge in my side shortly after but paid it no mind as since I was SUPERMOM I had things to do. The day was great the kids had a blast trick or treating - I noticed discomfort but I'd been busy all day so of course I'd be achy and tired. Fast forward to Wednesday each and every step was sheer pain at one point I am on the stairs (sitting) and then Whitlee is wiping tears from my face. By about 8 p.m. I decided to listen to Jeff -- I called my Chiro this morning but of course on Thursday he doesn't work until 3PM!!!! Jeff stayed home to watch Whitlee and take Brendan to school and Ginger to work. I have a bulging disk and a pinched nerve. My did manual alignment since I was in so much pain. The reason I was wanting to throw up so bad was my neck was WAY out of alignment also -- I felt somewhat better instantly - my back still hurts but I'm not crying I go back in the morning. Damn nacho cheese!!!!!!

I've been asked to do a photo shoot -- it's for Senior/Graduation photos. We'll see although I am more cofident with my new camera. Have I mentionned how much I LOVE IT!!! I am taking some BEAUTIFUL shots!!!

I am working on a TON of Halloween pictures as soon as I get some layouts I am happy with I post some layouts.

Something happened last week I wasn't sure if I was going to blog about it - it's not a secret or anything but more "personal" Whitlee and I came home from running errands and as soon as we pulled into the driveway - my buddy Mike pulled in behind us. I haven't seen him in awhile we email back and forth -- it was really good to see him. He was out running errands and saw us. Whitlee thought he was "cool" and she kept trying to give him leaves lots and lots and lots of leaves!! What is the fasination that she has with them -- they are EVERYWHERE!!! It was really good to see him --

Wednesday, November 01, 2006

Last night was a blast!!!! The kids had SO much fun but it was COLD!!!!! I'll post some of the pictures soon. Whitlee LOVED LOVED LOVED all the attention she was getting and Brendan LOVED LOVED LOVED the candy of course!!!

I got my "baby" on Friday -- it's a NIKON d80 -- and it is SWEET!!!!!!!!!!!! I have taken about 900 photos since I got it!!!!

This is going to be short - I threw out my back yesterday carrying a box of nacho cheese sauce into the school -- I am going to the chiro tomorrow -- Jeff is going to work from home so I can go.

.....one thing before I go......tlcpink1 - I'm glad you are looking for answers and if I can help PLEASE let me know!!!

Thursday, October 26, 2006

OK, maybe not that bad -- I have my beautiful wonderful laptop back............ah I missed her -- So, my grand idea that I KNEW what was wrong -- it just HAD to be the power port right -- why else would I be eating through power cords???? It was the MOTHER BOARD!!! $450 for the part -- I am LOVING the extended warranty more and more and more. I have spent today putting things back on that I had transferred to my external hard drive. I have a ton to blog but I need to put the finishing touches on my brothers announcements.

Sunday, October 22, 2006

Let me just say...........hello, my name is Stephanie and I am spoiled!!! I MISS MY LAPTOP!!!!!!!!!! I think Jeff is battered and bruised from trying to fight me for the computer -- I don't know who will be happier when the laptop returns him or me.

Let's see we have been BUSY BUSY BUSY!!!!!

Brendan had an AMAZING and FANTASTIC soccer game yesterday ---- He played goal for the entire game. He pulled out all the stops in that game!!!! He made some great saves. One shot his coach thought it had gone in and was yelling "That's ok Brendan -- Shake it off buddy" One of the kids yelled "it didn't go in!!" His coach took off running down the field screaming "WAY TO GO BRENDAN!!" You could just see Brendan beaming. The best part --- WE WON THE GAME!!! So, they don't keep score but every single parent on the sideline knew what the score was. There were a couple of injuries on both sides but on for the other team really scared me. A little guy took a shot full on the side of the face right off the foot -- the poor kid didn't even know where he was -- I kept screaming "THAT BOY IS NOT OK!!!" I don't think he returned for the rest of the game. I have pictures and video but will upload them later.

Today Ginger had a Halloween Party at work -- I took the kiddos everyone had a blast!!!! Brendan won a cake in the cake walk -- He picked the one he liked the best and only realized when we were on the way home that it was chocolate!!! His response "Oh well at least it looks cool!!" You just have to love the mind of a 10 year old.

I think that is just about it for now. Brendan has a choir performance with the middle school and the high school tomorrow night.

AND............If you are interested in a Christmas wreath, garland, candy cane, swag, cross or center piece -- Brendan is selling them as a fundraiser to raise money to go to 5th grade camp.

Gotta run Whitlee is trying to convince Jeff she needs to eat the largest piece of cake!!!!!

Tuesday, October 17, 2006

it's been 4 days. Life has been busy as usual. I will try to update this daily -- I had to take my laptop in today and have some work done on it (SNIFF) They said it could take up to 2 weeks (Please someone pick me up off the floor from fainting!!!) That is the "usual" line although the person who helped me didn't seem to think that it would take that long. All I know is that Jeff is going to get tired of fighting me for computer time. So I am off for now I'll try and get back soon.

Friday, October 13, 2006

So, when did kids start getting so many dang days off??? School has been going for about 5 weeks and they have already had 2 days off! School wasn't like this when I was young (but then that was a long time ago).

This week has been SO SO SO busy (Mike - I haven't forgotten about you I will email you what I have done). Brendan had his volleyball tournament yesterday -- 6 15 minutes matches -- UNDEFEATED!!! They played well and most of all they had a BLAST! Brendan just loved it -- I took him to practice in the morning so I could take the "team" picture for the yearbook - he had crossing guard and then school all day -- volleyball and then as soon as it was over he had soccer practice! CRAZY!!!!!!!!!!! I'm pulling the photos and video off my camera and will post some stuff soon.

Wednesday, October 11, 2006

that is so funny so me......hump day.......for whatever strange reason I always think of a speed bump. I am SUCH a spazz!!!!

This is a video of Brendan -- he went to a birthday party this past Sunday and it was an ice skating party -- HE LOVES TO ICE SKATE -- he wants to play hockey so darn bad but it is so expensive. He was so cold - I had told him to put on another shirt under his sweatshirt but he didn't want one - he said he would get overheated. And he didn't want to use gloves yet his hands were freezing. Ah.......pre-teen boys you have to love them:)

Monday, October 09, 2006

OK, so it's not a secret anymore --- ready..............My brother Steven got engaged tonight!!!!!!!!! I am SO excited and happy for both Steven and Sharlene!! Like I have said before she is WONDERFUL!!! They are really happy:)

OK that is all for now I am working on some school stuff and then I am going to try and play with some pictures.

Sunday, October 08, 2006

OK so there are a couple of things that I want to talk about --Today Brendan had a soccer game -- HE PLAYED GREAT!!! They whole team did. He is so pumped at the end of the game or even practice for that matter. He says he doesn't want to play football in middle school he just wants to concentrate on soccer during the fall -- my son mr.couch potato -- mr. I don't want to go outside wants to continue to play soccer in the fall.

My friend who lost her grandmother is home -- Friday was a rough day -- We Christy and I were there to support her. It is so hard to see a friend in pain and know that there isn't anything that you can do to take away the pain. It was a beautiful service. I had a couple of really rough moments - I thought that I was coping with mom being gone ok -- not well but at least ok. I was wrong. The casket that they had picked out for my friends grandma was the same casket that we had chosen for mom. If Christy hadn't been there I would have hit the floor. It has hard because then of course I thought of Mima -- I miss her so very much -- She was such an amazing woman and life in general would be so vastly different if she were still here. My children would have a realtionship with their grandfather -- and I am fairly certain my dad wouldn't have said the horrible things he did or treat Brendan the way he did. Anyhow it was hard on Christy also -- it brought up some painful memories for her. Funerals in general SUCK -- I think that they should have an open bar during the serivce -- It sure would make things easier:)

Today (well, Saturday) was Matthews birthday party -- I love this kid -- The party was wonderful!! Steven has been seeing this great gal - Sharlene. Other than Matthew I really believe that she is the best thing that has happened to him. Her family is the best -- They aren't engaged (yet)but her parents and her whole family for that matter treat Matthew (and Steven) as part of their family -- It's tough you know...Matthew is part of Steven's "package" but her family treats Matthew like he was born into that family. Down to the "special" birthday dinner that the entire family attends and Sharlene's mom even made 2 yes that is right 2 birthday cakes for him. They are wonderful people and I am glad they are apart of my brother and my nephews life!!!!

Thursday, October 05, 2006

This is going to be a super short post -- I have been running about a million miles an hour today and tonight. Tomorrow after coffee with Gayman I am attending the funeral of my friends grandma -- my friend arrived yesterday and will be leaving town tomorrow night to be back for her daughters birthday party -- It will be hard tomorrow not because I was close to her grandma but seeing her in the pain that she is in and everytime I attend a funeral or memorial service it brings me back to mom's death. It's been almost 8 years and even though we didn't get along I still pick up the phone thinking "Oh, mom would love what Whitlee said" or "Mom would be so proud of Brendan". I hate death...........

Wednesday, October 04, 2006

So offically it is Wednesday - Tuesday is just a complete....nothing - not even a memory just a hazy lazy blur.

I was at the dentist from 8am to 2pm -- They drilled out 5 fillings that I had had for at least 25 years - they were mercury filings and evidently those aren't good for you as mercury not suppose to be in your mouth. They seeded my crown and then I had another root canal(I didn't know that was going to happen) - The good thing is......I FEEL GREAT!!!! There is NO pain at all -- well, that isn't true - my mouth is sore but not to the point where I had to take anything not even an asprin.

I have something to put out there..............OK I am selling something---well, not me actually Brendan. As you know Brendan is in 5th grade this year - every year the 5th graders do a fundraiser to earn money for 5th grade camp(it is in May). The cost of the 4 day camp is around $150 per student. So this year the 5th graders are selling holiday wreaths - that's right fa-la-la-la-la!! The prices range from $15 for a centerpiece with bow and candle to $85 for a 48 inch mixed wreath -- the wreaths start at $17 for a 20 inch. Anyhow, Brendan has to earn half of his way to camp. If you would are interested in a holiday decoration (wreath, candy cane, cross, garland, centerpiece or swag) please let me know he is selling them until November 3rd (so, this will be one of many please) and they will be delivered the first week of December. Ok that is my speel but remember I'll be back:)School pictures were today - Brendan's should turn out nice -- The girls that were there taking the pictures were the best!!! They loved Whitlee -- she (Whitlee) even got her picture taken - I can't wait for them to come back.

I'm off I have to finish typing up the minutes from the last PTA meeting and do a newsletter:)

Monday, October 02, 2006

bring me down..... OK, so it didn't rain but it is Monday -- The beginning of another week -- I have a dental appointment tomorrow - Luckily my family doesn't expect much of me tomorrow as I will be drugged out of my mind -- I won't remember a thing - literally. I should only be there for about 4 hours this time. So it should be a short visit:)

Jeff has the day off and so Whitlee said she was going to babysit him:) She said she wants 2 monies -- I think I'll make sure there is a "treat" for her. Taking care of daddy is a big job -- I am determined to teach him how to do a ponytail:) The thought of doing Whitlee's hair FREAKS him out -- He never had a problem combing Brendan's hair -- the only thing I can figure is that she is a girl. So, I am starting with ponys and working my way to braids (take a minute to form the mental picture of Jeff braiding Whitlee's hair -- now take a minute to giggle:))

OK, I am off -- I need to locate sweats for tomorrow and take a shower since I won't be in any condition tomorrow.

Oh wait one thing.........My crazy friend who jumped out of the plane -- You are my hero!!! You have a set of brass balls baby -- I could NEVER do that.

Sunday, October 01, 2006

Where oh where has the year gone??? only 86 more shopping days until CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!

This year seems to just be flying by. Today was a lazy hazy fall day at the Cunningham house. Well, Ginger did have to work but she has the next 2 days off!!

OK - So, I've been busy -- here is a video I took of Brendan yesterday at his soccer game.

He really loves soccer and I am so glad!!!! I have been working on a soccer themed magazine cover -- I figure why pay the photographer $12 for one that I don't really like when I can make one that I will:)

My friend Jenel (I think she is CRAZY) jumped out of a plane yesterday -- LITERALLY -- and since she made it ok it looks like Jay is going to have to pay for her tattoo:)

Before I go -- A very close friend of mine lost her grandma this morning -- I have known this friend and her family for 20 years -- my heart is just breaking for them. Please keep them in your thoughts that they can find peace in this sad time. Thanks

Saturday, September 30, 2006

So, Friday there wasn't any school -- 3 weeks and they get their first day off -- Where was this kind of schedule when I was in school??? Anyhow since Jeff and Ginger had to work (and I bribed Whitlee) We met with a couple of Brendan's friends from school (Emily and Natalie), Emily's mom and little brother. We saw Open Season -- It was cute and most of all the kids LOVED it:)

It wasn't Jackass like Brendan wanted to see but then I didn't think that would be a good movie for Whitlee --

Today was Brendan's 2nd soccer game. They played alright -- Brendan did pretty well -- he made a few really good plays - He made a "header" play -- It was a throw in and there was what seemed to be a 9 ft. tall 4th grader trying to receive the ball - Brendan was determined NOT to let him get it so he jumped up and hit the ball with his head. Another great play he did he was along the side line running toward the goal -- the ball was kicked to him and he had 4 boys from the other team advancing on him to try and get the ball. He faked out one kid did a soft dribble, pivoted around the ball keeping it from the other team and then took it up the sideline -- his coach turned to us as said "Where had he been hiding that skill???" The strangest thing one of the coaches for the other team was my dentist --- He was making our coach nuts!!! It was a good game -- Coach was please with Brendan's performance today -- he had a couple of private words with Brendan after the game --

Of course I have some pictures and a couple of short videos from todays game. I'm off to unload them from my camera -- I'll post them when I'm done --

Tonight is the Seattle Thunderbirds Season opener -- The Cunningham house is SO EXCITED!!!!

Thursday, September 28, 2006

I wanted to jump on here really quick and say TODAY IS A BEAUTIFUL FALL DAY!!! and.........Whitlee is taking a nap!!! WOO HOO!!!! OK, so I did bribe her:) I told her if she took a nap and that meant going to sleep that I would take her and Brendan to the movies tomorrow. She was really excited!!!!

Tonight is the open house at Brendan's school --- I am on triple duty tonight -- Yearbook photos, newsletter photos, PTA, and mom -----------wait that is 4 things what would that be?? Quad duty?? is there such a thing???

Wednesday, September 27, 2006

I wanted to jump on here and post this before I forgot!!! Here is a layout I did of Brendan's first soccer game!!! The templet is Angle ~ Templet ~ by Scrap Byte and the kit I used is Soccer ~ Ronnie McCray. I LOVE LOVE LOVE Ronnie McCray's kits!!!!! I have the Volleyball one also - just waiting for the volleyball shots to scrap with!!!!!!!!! Anyhow, let me know what you think (THIS INCLUDES YOU JENEL AND SHARLENE!!!!)

OK, I also need to add a layout I have done of Whitlee -- the kit is Sports Center by Rebecca Myers and the layout is by ME!!!!

Tuesday, September 26, 2006

That is where I live -- Today (Tuesday) Brendan needed to be at school by 7:10 am --- yes, that is AM!! He has volleyball practice on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Let's just say he was unavailable for practice or school or even soccer practice. Poor baby - after going back to bed at 6:15 he literally slept until 11 AM. He didn't even move. He seems to be doing better and doesn't have a fever so we are going to try school tomorrow.

I bought Whitlee (ok the whole family) Curious George today. I wasn't a real good PTA mom today --- I went to Walmart as it is the closest and usually the cheapest -- How was I to know there was a Seattle Seahawk there signing autographs............Well, actually he was done as I walked in -- I grabbed the movie out of the display and started toward the register -- He proclaimed in a MACHO voice "I bet she wants my autograph!" Um..........NO I want Curious George -- so the butt-kissing employee that they had assigned to him comes bum rushing me -- I am trying to explain no I am not interested.....Mr. Seahawk says "Come on, I know your here to see me just admit it!!" I have now realized that he must be in love with himself I mean seriously -- I tried I really tried to be polite. When he didn't quite get the picture - I literally said "No, I don't want your autograph and there are 2 reasons for it...1) I don't know WHO the heck you are and 2) I hate the Seahawks I am a life long 49er fan" and with that I grabbed a box of Junior Carmels and my Curious George DVD and headed to the register!!! I don't want put who he is let's just say he is a cornerback and leave it at that!! Where has my patience gone??? I am disgusted that I reacted like that. I just was at my wits end by that time with both Whitlee and Brendan not feeling well.

So here is a new layout -- I took the picture of Whitlee last night as we were waiting to get into the gym for the Cub Scout pack meeting -- Where did my baby go????

Sunday, September 24, 2006

that it is still Saturday night - that way I only missed one day of blogging.

Friday, September 22, 2006

Brendan made his first AR goal of the year today a week early!!!!! WOOT WOOT for him!!!

Brendan and the choir sang the National Anthem at the Husky vs. Stanford women's volleyball game. THEY WERE WONDERFUL!!!!!!!!!! The mic's didn't work but it didn't matter those children sang so loud that they were able to carry Hec Ed Pavillion!!! It was a tricky start as there were 2 major accidents and so getting to the game was hairy --- Whitlee LOVED the game - I think other than dancing to the music her favorite part was yelling "Point HUSKYS!!!" that and waving the pom pom around.

Saturday, September 23, 2006Today was Brendan's first soccer game. HE HAD A BLAST!!! When he was subbed out he would run over to me and say "Man, I am having a blast!!!" or "I love this game!!!!" Coach Rick really showed a lot of confidence in him -- he started the game in goal. Of course we had to go to big 5 after the game so he could get some goalie gloves. We also got Whitlee some shin guards -- she said she need soccer gear!!! They are SO cute -- they are pink and black.

Anyhow -- it has been a great weekend so far. I'll be back later I have to transfer about 100 pictures from today's game from my camera!!!!

Thursday, September 21, 2006

So, Brendan NEVER ceases to amaze me. His schedule is PACKED these days and he is LOVING it!!! He hurt his foot earlier this week its his left ankle but he is determined to practice and play -- he asked for ice baths for his foot and has done them -- he has worn a brace to school almost all week to protect his ankle so he can play on Saturday.

He is taking his crossing guard duties VERY seriously!!!! He has even filled in when his friend Emily got hurt.

Here he is on his first day ---

I am so proud of him!!! Tomorrow (Friday) is the first choir performance of the year I'll post pictures when we get home.

Ah bookclub!!! Every few weeks I meet with a group of women and have a nice dinner and good conversation --- tonight we met at a place in Tacoma called The Melting Pot. I have just one word ---- YUM YUM YUM YUM YUM ok ok that is more than one word. It is a bit pricey but well worth it!!!!!!

Brendan had his first soccer practice tonight -- his first game is Saturday at 10:30 at the Game Farm Park Silver field.

I wanted to post a cool layout I did last night --- it is of me and Whitlee -- She is really a mini me what do you think???

The background paper I used is from the Your Love Is Better Than Chocolate ~ AmsDigiScraps

I'm outta here Brendan has to be at school at 7:10 am for volleyball practice YIKES!!!!!!

Tuesday, September 19, 2006

As I slowly exit the fog of painkillers -- I realize it has been almost a week. The swelling is gone although my gums are VERY SORE -- who am I kidding they are painful -- Dr. Knuttal gave me a RX for this stuff to spray on my cheeks to numb them -- stupid stupid barely english speaking people who work at the 24 hour pharmacy --- he didn't know what it was so refused to fill it --- thankfully Dr. K's office contacted them multiple times and I went in to pick up Jeff's RX they actually had mine ready -- I was ready to throw down.

My sweet son lost a tooth today --- Is it normal for a 10 year old to lose a tooth??? I am not sure but trying not to panic.

We get the individual WASL score tomorrow (Tuesday) -- Gosh I hope Brendan did ok -- I am sure he did but the not knowing makes me NUTS:)

Brendan is singing the National Anthem with his choir on Friday --- They are singing at a Women's Husky Volleyball game -- it is against Stanford -- I CAN'T WAIT!!!!

Ginger decided what she wants to be for Halloween -- A ROCK CHICK -- I bought her the coolest pants - they are actually stretch pants -- black with silver spider webs all over -- they are very cool!!!! At Ginger's work today they had some kind of drawing (I'm not sure why) anyhow Ginger was one of the 2 names pulled and she got a $25 gift card to Fred Meyers --- We are going to try and find a red rocker chick top for her to wear and get a Disney magazine - I'm sure it has to do with the Cheeta Girls.

Well, I think that is all for now -- I need to get some sleep or at least try. I'll try and post some of the layouts I have been working on.

Sunday, September 17, 2006

Mouth still hurting.........I hate taking the pain medication..........The temp. crown fell off tonight -- luckily I was able to get it put back on --- if he (the dentist) wasn't available I was thinking of using super glue. My face is still a little swollen but much better than yesterday or the day before.

Thursday, September 14, 2006

I have lost an entire day -- literally. So, we all know how much I hate to go to the dentist!!! I was finally able to go in yesterday to fix the issue with my left front tooth -- They did a few other things while I was "under" I don't remember ANYTHING!! They have to give me a medication called Halcinon (something like that). Not only does it knock me out I don't remember ANYTHING until the next day -- Evidently I tried to bribe Brendan to bring me a wine cooler -- I offered him $150 -- Am I a good mom or what -- when he was telling me this I didn't believe him because without a doubt I would never EVER ask Brendan to do that -- So, He bet me $5. I am now $5 poorer --- Can you even believe I did that!!! I guess I also threw a little tantrum when Jeff tried to give me the antibiotics -- I didn't want to take them -- not quite sure why but I didn't -- I feel so stupid!!!!! I'll have to make something REALLY good for dinner tonight -- I have some Copper River salmon -- maybe I'll make him that!

Brendan started Volleyball today -- the practices are at 7:15 AM!! Yes, that is suppose to read AM!! And today was Brendan and his friend Jonathan's first day as crossing guards -- They had a big day today!! It works out well because Jeff can take Brendan to school and drop him off by 7:15 and still has plenty of time to get to the train station -- Brendan thinks it is really cool that his dad is doing this and Jeff likes it because it allows him to do stuff (even if its just dropping him off) that I usually do -- Brendan was really proud when he was saying "Dad dropped me off this morning -- that was SO cool!!" And it works out for me because then I only have to make 1 trip in to take Ginger to work instead of 2 -- Brendan to school and then Ginger to work. Brendan will have practice twice a week until the jamboree -- which is when all the elementary schools get together and play a series of games. That is October 12th. After that Volleyball season is over and we wait for basketball with Mr. Grab!!! Mrs. Gillaspy and Mrs. Carr are the coaches. I am going to talk to Ashley and see if she would mind if I took a team picture and individual shots for the team (and the yearbook). I have some great digital scrapbooking stuff I can use for volleyball --

I uploaded and printed 20 18X20 layout sheets to Costco on Tuesday -- they would have been ready on Wednesday but I of course wasn't in any shape to pick them up so Whitlee and I went up there today -- I cried SERIOUSLY when I picked them up -- so, I knew the pictures were alright and I thought the layouts looked ok -- but seeing them blown up to the 12x12 size and smaller the actual page. They look SO GREAT!! I have them all spread out on my bed right now just looking at them!!! Brendan has already laid dibs on one of the 6x6's of he and JC at the Storm game -- I am giving JC the other one.

Today was Brendan's 1st day as a Crossing Guard -- you have to be in 5th grade to be a crossing guard -- there are 2 things he has been waiting for since he was a Kinder -- basketball with Mr. Grab and being a crossing guard -- I snapped a few shots today and can't wait to do some pages. I didn't get any done yesterday as I was "under medical sedation" That sounds good right!!! Anyhow I am going to try and get a few done tonight -- no promises though as I am going to be taking some pain medication as soon as Jeff gets home.

I realized that I hadn't done a quote in a long time. I found this one and I'm looking for the right layout to use it on - I just love it.

"The most wasted of all days is one without laughter - e. e. Cummings"

Tuesday, September 12, 2006

This is Brendan at the Yu-Gi-Oh Regional Tournament that he did in August.

This is Whitlee when we went out to breakfast last week. The kit is called Aliyah by Melissa Knopik. I really love the colors in this kit.

Steven, Sharlene and Matthew took Brendan camping this weeken so I scrapped a page -- yes, that is Brendan eating moose meat -- the kit I used is Cabin Fever from PC Crafters.

Every year on the first day of school I take Brendan to Starbucks to get something to drink and chat about the day -- It is such a special time and I really cherish it. The kit I used is called Boys Will Be Boys by Jenny L. It's the color thing again --

Usually I pretend that it is still the previous day because I am still up -- However, I am SO glad it is Tuesday!!! I was a bad mommy today -- After dropping Ginger off at work and Brendan off at school Whitlee and I cruised into the local grocery store to pick up some OJ and bananas(that girl eats more bananas than anything else I swear!!!) Anyhow I was #3 in line there was a older man in front of me (I'd say mid 50's) - I only refer to him as older because he was older than I am and there was a lady in front of him. The cashier is someone I have seen frequently over the years a very very nice man!!! Anyhow he was chit chatting like usual -- and he asked if we (the 3 of us) remembered what we were doing when the buildings fell. The lady in the front was saying she heard it on the radio and she had to pull over -- and I said I had been getting ready for work -- the man said "Don't believe all the media hype over this event" I was speechless! Then he said "The media trumps up the number of dead and tries to put a spin on it like the holocaust" I thought I would literally throw up right on him. Unfortunately I didn't sensor what came out of my mouth -- Basically I asked him what kind of drugs he took that could make him SO delusional. I mean he couldn't be serious right -- he was! He said that the planes going into the building was put on by the leftwing media -- and that nobody really died they were just paid off!! By this time I was seeing red -- I really really couldn't believe what I was hearing!! So, then I said "I hope in your life time you didn't procreate and pass this awful spewing onto children" I know I know I shouldn't have said anything!!! He looked at Whitlee and said he felt sorry for her because I was warping her mind with my false liberal blabble -- that was his come back can you believe it!!! I said -- Not only do I have her but I have another child and we are raising them to be LIBERAL DEMOCRATS -- he shook his head and said I was pathetic -- So, I told him to go iron the hood and gown in his closet -- I know I know I shouldn't have said anything. I just couldn't believe what was coming out of his mouth -- and he really was serious. The liberal media did this and no one died -- It still makes me so ANGRY!!! The lady just seemed to be in shock and the when it was my turn the cashier said "good job, I can't believe he said that". Some people................

Monday, September 11, 2006

Here is another layout I did. I of course took the shot of the 3 caterpillers but Brendan took the rest of the shots. He is becoming quite the little photographer -- Maybe if I get that Cannon Rebel (Hint Hint again Jeff:)) I'll give him the camera I have now.

The Kit I used for this layout is Sunkissed Summer by K Shultz. I love the colors of this kit -- I'll be able to do some great layouts of Brendan since Orange is his favorite color.

According to my clock it is 12:18 am -- where did the freaking day go??? Thankfully Brendan is feeling better -- Man, I felt so damn bad for him. He felt awful but kept trying to pretend that he felt fine. Yesterday (Saturday) was my brother's birthday - Jeff took Ginger and Whitlee to join Steven, Sharlene, Matthew, Jenel, Jay, Dylan and Jacob for dinner (at Brendan's FAVORITE place). They had a good time - Brendan was really bummed because he really wanted to go. We have gone over 24 hours without any vomit so I believe things may be looking up!!!!

So, I am sure that a million bloggers are going to talk about this so here is my speel I'll keep it short and try to reign in the liberal side of me.

Today is September 11 - the 5 year anniversary of the twin tower and pentagon explosions. I promise I won't preach or get on a soap box -- I remember vividly what I was doing when I heard about what was going on -- I was getting ready for work -- I still have the same sense of dispair when I think of it -- Such meaningless loss of life -- all those people who parished. I watched one of those news shows on Friday the one with Diane Sawyer -- they had the 9/11 widows with the babies whos fathers were killed. They are now almost 5. I must have cried a thousand tears during that show. While I am as angry at Bin Ladin as everyone else I do wonder why the hell haven't we captured him yet -- well, that would be because we are fighting a stupid war over basically nothing -- oh wait it was the non-weapons of mass distruction. OK, I'm done I promise:) I just wish peace for the survivors of 9/11.

So, here is a layouts that I did of our recent trip to the zoo.

The background for this page is from kit Watch Me Grow by Jean -- I really love this kit I can't wait to use it on some other layouts!! Feeding the birds at the Willawong Station is really cool -- it costs $1.00 per person (over 2) but it is totally worth it. I literally took 100 pictures while we were in there!! I'll be making more pages.